Applying for a 5-year multiple-entry Schengen visa requires careful planning and adherence to specific requirements. The process involves selecting the appropriate visa type, preparing necessary documents, attending an interview, and waiting for processing.

Read also: Here are 29 Schengen countries offering 5 years visa

Visa type selection

Applicants must determine the suitable visa category based on their purpose of travel. Common categories include tourism, business, and family visits. The multiple-entry option must be selected on the visa application form.

Read also: Top 10 easiest Schengen visas to apply for in 2025

Required documents

Applicants must provide:

  • A valid passport with at least three months’ validity beyond the visa period.
  • A completed Schengen visa application form with the ‘multiple-entry’ option selected.
  • A cover letter explaining the need for a 5-year visa.
  • Proof of previous Schengen visas, if applicable.
  • A travel itinerary detailing planned trips over five years.
  • Financial documents, including bank statements, salary slips, or sponsorship letters.
  • Travel insurance covers the entire Schengen region with at least €30,000 coverage.
  • Flight and accommodation bookings for at least the first planned trip.

Read also: Top 8 Schengen countries with highest multiple entry visa issuance

Booking an appointment

Applicants must schedule an appointment at the consulate of the first Schengen country they plan to visit or at a VFS Global centre handling visa applications for that country.

Visa interview

During the interview, applicants must explain their travel plans and present supporting documents. Clear justifications for long-term travel intentions improve approval chances.

Related News

Read also: Top 10 countries with the highest Schengen visa rejection rates

Visa fee payment

The visa fee for a 5-year multiple-entry Schengen visa is the same as a standard short-stay visa, with adults required to pay €90, children aged 6 to 12 paying €45, and children under 6 granted free entry.

Processing time

Visa processing typically takes 15 to 45 days. If approved, a visa sticker will be issued in the passport.

Read also: Top 5 countries in Africa with the highest Schengen visa rejection rates

Schengen visa updates for 2025

Several changes have been introduced for Schengen visas in 2025:

  • Increased visa fees: Adult applications now cost €90, up from €80.
  • Digital Schengen visa: Some countries have started accepting online applications.
  • Stricter travel insurance rules: Comprehensive coverage with a higher minimum sum is required.
  • Extended visa validity: Frequent travellers may have better chances of obtaining long-term multiple-entry visas.
  • Biometric data requirement: Some applicants may need to provide updated fingerprints.

Read also: No way through: Schengen visa rejection hits 4-yr high 

While obtaining a 5-year multiple-entry Schengen visa is not guaranteed, maintaining a strong travel history, providing clear justifications, and ensuring all required documents are in order can improve the likelihood of approval.

Chisom Michael is a data analyst (audience engagement) and writer at BusinessDay, with diverse experience in the media industry. He holds a BSc in Industrial Physics from Imo State University and an MEng in Computer Science and Technology from Liaoning Univerisity of Technology China. He specialises in listicle writing, profiles and leveraging his skills in audience engagement analysis and data-driven insights to create compelling content that resonates with readers.

Join BusinessDay whatsapp Channel, to stay up to date

Open In Whatsapp